1978 Fiat 131 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 540 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (271 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 131. (95 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 131. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat 131 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 131 | C |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 120 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2720 mm |
